a day ago
- China's Chang'e-6 mission returned samples from the lunar far side, containing microscopic fragments of water-bearing CI chondrite meteorites, providing evidence that water-rich asteroids delivered water to Earth.
- The Moon's lack of atmosphere preserved these pristine meteorites, which account for 30% of its meteorite collection, helping scientists understand the origin of Earth's oceans.
- NASA's X-59 supersonic jet reduces sonic booms to 75 decibels (like a car door slam), potentially overturning the ban on overland supersonic flight, but it burns significantly more fuel and releases pollutants that damage the ozone layer.
- Future lunar missions include Chang'e-7 (2026) searching for water ice and Chang'e-8 (2028) testing in-situ resource utilization, with an International Lunar Research Station planned for the 2030s.
- During a U.S. government shutdown, NASA went silent while key milestones occurred (Artemis II assembly, Mars rover discoveries), highlighting challenges in sustaining long-term scientific endeavors.